Kennedy’s grandson, Jack Schlossberg, is presenting the award to Dannel P. Malloy at a ceremony Sunday morning in Boston.

Malloy, a Democrat, was named this year’s recipient for his vocal support of refugee resettlement. Schlossberg credits Malloy with taking a stand “against the hateful, xenophobic rhetoric” at a time when some governors and presidential candidates sought a ban on Syrian refugees.

Malloy announced three days after the Paris attacks that Connecticut would continue to accept refugees from Syria.

Schlossberg says that exemplifies JFK’s vision of the United States as a nation that welcomes freedom-loving people who are persecuted or in need.

“I’m deeply honored and moved. I believe that when you see wrong happening, you must stand up to do what’s right — that’s what guides us each and every day,” Malloy said in a statement.

“Whether it’s reforming our criminal justice system with our Second Chance initiatives, advocating for the LGBTQ community, fighting for fairer wages or working conditions, or standing up to ignorance around the refugee issue, we have tried to do just that. We’ve tried to lead — and we’ve tried to lead by doing the right thing. It is incredibly humbling and moving to receive this award. I cannot thank the JFK Foundation enough,” he said.